Flagship BluOS Streaming with Dual-Mono DAC Architecture and Balanced Outputs
The Bluesound NODE ICON Premium Music Streamer with 5" Color Display is the flagship model in Bluesound's NODE family, designed for high-performance stereo systems where streaming flexibility and reference-level digital conversion are equally important. Its dual-mono architecture uses two ESS ES9039Q2M SABRE DACs, with each channel receiving its own dedicated conversion path for improved separation, dynamic range and low-noise performance.
A 5-inch full-color HD display presents album artwork and playback information, while balanced XLR and RCA outputs allow the NODE ICON to connect directly to premium amplifiers, active speakers or preamplifiers. HDMI eARC, USB-C computer audio, optical and analog inputs expand source flexibility, and BluOS provides high-resolution music streaming, multi-room playback, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect and Roon Ready integration. THX AAA headphone amplification and Dirac Live Ready room correction further extend its capabilities.
Highlights & Benefits
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Dual-Mono ESS SABRE DAC Design — Two ESS ES9039Q2M converters provide dedicated left- and right-channel processing for excellent separation, low distortion and wide dynamic range.
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5" Full-Color HD Display — The front display presents album artwork, track information and system status in a premium component-style interface.
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Balanced XLR Outputs — Dedicated balanced analog outputs provide a direct high-quality connection to compatible amplifiers, preamplifiers and active loudspeakers.
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THX AAA Headphone Amplification — Dual full-size 1/4-inch headphone outputs provide low-distortion personal listening with a wide range of headphones.
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Dirac Live Ready — Optional Dirac Live room correction helps compensate for room acoustics and loudspeaker placement through supported analog and digital outputs.
Technology & Design
Dual-Mono ESS ES9039Q2M DAC Architecture — Each stereo channel uses its own dedicated SABRE DAC, reducing channel interaction while improving signal separation and measured performance.
QRONO d2a Processing — MQA Labs' QRONO d2a technology is designed to correct timing errors in digital-to-analog conversion and improve the impulse response of the reconstructed analog waveform.
ES9826 SABRE Analog-to-Digital Conversion — A high-performance two-channel ADC provides accurate conversion of analog sources entering the NODE ICON while minimizing added noise and distortion.
Premium Aluminum Chassis — The anodized aluminum enclosure, 5-inch display and backlit touch controls give the NODE ICON a substantial reference-component design while helping provide a stable platform for its analog and digital circuitry.
FAQ — Bluesound NODE ICON
What makes the NODE ICON different from the standard Bluesound NODE?
The NODE ICON adds a dual-mono DAC architecture with two ESS ES9039Q2M converters, balanced XLR outputs, a 5-inch full-color display, higher measured signal-to-noise performance, upgraded analog-to-digital conversion and dual headphone connections.
Does the NODE ICON support Dirac Live?
Yes. The NODE ICON is Dirac Live Ready. Dirac processing is supported through the balanced XLR, RCA, optical and coaxial outputs. The USB Audio output does not support Dirac Live processing. A compatible Dirac license and calibration microphone are sold separately.
Can the NODE ICON connect directly to a power amplifier?
Yes. Both the balanced XLR and stereo RCA outputs can operate with variable level control, allowing the NODE ICON to serve as a streaming DAC and digital preamplifier connected directly to a compatible power amplifier or powered speakers.
Does the NODE ICON have a headphone amplifier?
Yes. The NODE ICON uses THX AAA headphone amplifier technology and provides two full-size 6.3mm / 1/4-inch headphone outputs, allowing convenient connection from either side of the component.
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